What’s Good for the Goose (3) Август 5, 2010

In the world of geese, the aged, very young, and infirm are kept protected in the rear of the formation. But they aren’t isolated, discounted or considered useless; in fact they fulfil a vital role. They become the honking section and cheer for the leaders. Inevitably, bad weather threatens the mission. The going gets tough and the tough are struggling. From the rear of the formation a lone honk sounds, initiating a geese chorus honking encouragement to the point goose. Paul understood this: ‘…Encourage one another and build each other up…’ (1 Thessalonians 5:11 NIV). He knew we need a ‘honking section’ supporting us with uplifting words and prayer. We need those who say, ‘We are behind you. We’ve got your back covered!’ ‘But… you, brethren, do not grow weary in doing good’ (2 Thessalonians 3:13 NKJV). Many a servant of Christ has crossed their deepest valley on a wing, a prayer and a honk from some oldscarred, battle-hardened, straggle-feathered, half-bald honker of encouragement who was too stubborn to let a brother or sister quit on their watch! Occasionally, a strident, out-of-tune goose complains loudly and irritatingly. Within moments the honking section kicks in, drowning out the grumbler, restoring order and unity. The church’s problem isn’t too many people speaking negatively, it’s too few speaking positively! When someone cries, ‘defeat’, honk back, ‘victory’ When they cry, ‘fear’, honk back, ‘faith’. A few words of encouragement can overpower a storm of complaints. So join the honking section and be known like Barnabas, whose name means ‘Son of Encouragement’ (Acts 4:36 NIV).